If you’re wondering, “What is the proper location for flashing installation?” Let HUDCO Roofing & Exteriors help you out. Metal flashing is a thin, sheet metal material used to waterproof the perimeter and protrusions of roofing systems.
Metal flashing can be made from several materials, including galvanized steel, copper, and stainless steel. No matter what material you choose, metal flashing is essential in any roofing system. It helps to keep water out of the home, preventing damage to the structure and the contents.
Even though shingles cover the majority of your roof, you must add metal flashing in areas where shingles are not present to prevent water from entering.
Below, we will see the critical areas where you must install flashing to protect your roof and home.
- Valleys
Two roof decks that slope inwards toward one another constitute a low line. The valley is the lowest spot on your roof and the most likely entry site for water. In some circumstances, overlapping shingles can help prevent water penetration. However, many current dimensional shingles are too thick and hard to do the job well. Valley flashing might be effective in this situation.
Your roofer will install a metal flashing piece in the valley on top of the underlayment and beneath the shingles. These pieces will direct any precipitation away from the roof towards the gutters. This area of flashing will be visible from the ground. So choose a color that appeals to you.
If you live in Louisiana, HUDCO Roofing & Exteriors, the leading roofing company in the area, will provide you with many flashing alternatives from which to choose.
- Chimneys
When it rains, water will run down the side of your chimney. Incorrect flashing installation might cause water to leak onto your singles. However, if you do not install flashing, water will flow down the chimney and into the roof underlayment.
Because of the frequent exposure to moisture, the underlayment will ultimately degrade.
The HUDCO Roofing & Exteriors crew will install flashing on all chimneys, dormers, and other external vents. This help establishes a seal that prevents water from reaching your roof’s underlayment. When the weather hits its height, it is critical to be prepared to avoid significant damage. Thus, a correctly installed flashing will be beneficial.
- Drip Edges
Another critical spot for flashing is your roof edge. For your roof’s narrow margins, drip edge flashing is necessary. Your contractor will place this L-shaped metal flashing beneath the shingles and at the roof’s edge. Therefore, water may readily pass through the shingles and into the flashing.
When the water reaches the flashing’s edge, it flows over it and down the other side into the gutter. So, this piece protects the wood decking that runs around the roof’s edge. Without drip edge flashing, your roof would experience water damage.
- Skylights
Our flashing service for homes with skylights distinguishes us from the competitors. While skylights are a terrific method to allow in more natural light, if not installed properly, they can increase the danger of water damage. We will flash the skylight window to ensure adequate water diversion into your roofing material.
- Continuous
When a roof requires a sidewall, you must install continuous flashing. The HUDCO Roofing & Exteriors team will help you with that and any other roofing needs. A “continuous” is a long piece of flashing that wraps around the corner. It creates a smooth transition from the wall to the roof shingles below. This flashing is designed assuming that roof leaks will be less probable with one continuous metal strip than with multiple smaller ones.
Perform Annual Routine Inspections with the Pros
Several factors determine the longevity of your roof’s flashing. We can mention the metal used, the type of flashing installed, the local environment, and others. When you replace your roof, you should also replace the flashing. This contributes to a more seamless installation that eases water to flow to your drainage system.
It is our expert advice that you have your roof inspected once a year. This wise measure will help us to discover problems before they become serious. During our roof inspection, we will evaluate all flashing to ensure it is in excellent condition. Besides, we will check that it diverts water away from your roof’s supporting components.
HUDCO Roofing & Exteriors provides high-quality roofing services to the citizens of Louisiana. Also, we offer excellent commercial building, insurance claim, and storm damage services.
HUDCO Roofing & Exteriors can provide you with the help you need. You can get in touch with us by calling us at 225-414-6153. We service areas in Alexandria, Houma, and Ruston, LA.